DIY Vitamin C E Ferulic Serum Formulation

Your Questions Answered

1. Regarding EDTA: You are correct. Based on the formula and the staff's response, you do not need to include Disodium EDTA in this specific formula. However, it is essential to use high-purity Purified Water for mixing to avoid issues with metal ions affecting the stability of L-Ascorbic Acid.
2. Regarding Mixing Order: When combining Phase A and Phase B, the correct procedure is to pour Phase B into Phase A.
3. Regarding Panthenol: Yes, the Panthenol referred to in the formula is the powder form, specifically Panthenol (Vitamin B5, DL-Panthenol, Powder).

Troubleshooting Separation

You experienced separation after adding the Hyaluronic Acid powders (both Standard Molecule and Nano Molecule) to your formula.

• Likely Cause: The separation is most likely due to the Hyaluronic Acid powders not fully dissolving. Dissolving Hyaluronic Acid powder, especially at higher concentrations or when using different molecular weights together, requires sufficient time, chilling, and agitation (shaking or blending) to hydrate properly and form a uniform gel. If the chilling and shaking were not sufficient, the powder can remain undissolved or partially dissolved, leading to separation. Adding both standard and nano sizes simultaneously doesn't necessarily spoil the formula but can make the dissolution process more challenging compared to using a pre-dissolved liquid form.
• How to Fix: You do not need to discard the separated formula. You can filter the mixture using a fine filter, such as coffee filter paper. This will remove the undissolved solid particles, leaving you with the liquid portion of the serum. While the undissolved Hyaluronic Acid will be removed, the remaining liquid will still contain the other dissolved active ingredients like Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate), Ferulic Acid (Pure-Ferulic Acid™), Panthenol (Vitamin B5, DL-Panthenol, Powder), and Phenoxyethanol, which can still provide benefits to the skin.
• Alternative for Hyaluronic Acid: To avoid dissolution issues in the future, consider using a liquid form of Hyaluronic Acid, such as Double Hyaluron Liquid. This product is already a liquid blend of nano and standard size Hyaluronic Acid, making it much easier to incorporate into water-based formulas without the need for extensive chilling and shaking to dissolve powders.

Remember to store your finished serum properly, especially the Vitamin C component, which is sensitive to light, heat, and air. Storing it in a cool, dark place or the refrigerator is recommended to maintain its stability and efficacy.